Sander Kushen, sander.kushen@sierraclub.org
LOS ANGELES — Earlier today the EPA proposed approval of a groundbreaking rule aimed to mitigate pollution from Southern California warehouses. The rule, known as the Warehouse Indirect Source Rule, requires that large warehouses offset their pollution by adapting zero-emission fleets, electrifying their equipment, installing solar panels, and implementing other clean-energy initiatives. The rule was first passed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) in 2021, and will regulate approximately 6,500 warehouses across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties.
This decision only comes after the tireless advocacy from community leaders who were forced to live and work in cities and towns with dirty, unbreathable air. Sierra Club joined forces with environmental justice, labor, and local advocates to call for a strong warehouse rule back in 2021.
“It is imperative that the EPA approve this rule so that frontline communities can begin to get the relief that has been sought for decades,” said Marven Norman, Policy Coordinator for the Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice. “While not a silver bullet, this rule will work in conjunction with other rules from other agencies such as CARB to clean up the logistics industry.”
Truck traffic and other large warehouse operations emit harmful pollutants that can pose health risks, including increased risks of asthma and cancer. Bad air quality is especially a problem in the South Coast Air Basin, which experienced 124 unhealthy smog days in 2022. This area is home to more than 17 million people, roughly 44% of California's entire population.
“In order to meet our climate and air quality goals, we must make the switch to clean energy solutions and lock in policies that prioritize true zero-emission technology,” said Yassi Kavezade, a Field Manager with the Sierra Club. “We are proud of this news today and look forward to supporting other communities facing the unfortunate encroachment of warehousing in their communities.”
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About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.